By Mike May
When playing golf at either The Alpine, or The Monument courses at BOYNE Mountain, you will be intrigued by each respective layout, the creativity of each hole’s design, and the overall quality of the two golf courses.
In addition to the fantastic golf at Boyne Mountain, Cart Girl Extraordinaire, Jerri Lee Richards, is BOYNE Mountain’s Vice President of Fun and the Ambassador of Joy. You can’t miss her, nor will you ever forget her. During the golf season, Richards is always prowling both courses at Boyne Mountain providing thirsty golfers with drinks and snacks.
BUT, She provides more than just food and beverage.
Richards is the most energetic and outgoing cart girl you will ever meet. She has been the most passionate advocate for BOYNE Mountain golf for nearly 30 years. It might be fair to say that her effervescent personality and commitment to customer service are two of the reasons why BOYNE Mountain is such a popular golfing destination. 
“My career has been such a joy,” says Richards. “I’m happy to serve the golfers. I love what I do. My ‘office’ is so beautiful – rain or shine. Cups of ice are put in the carts while the golfers continue to play before they ask for it. I also offer to take photos for almost every group to record their memory.”
When she shows up with drinks and snacks, her level of enthusiasm is infectious. By her own admission, Jerri Lee makes the best Bloody Mary’s in Michigan, if not the entire Midwest. She even has soothing muscle cream, if you are suffering with a sore back.
“Our shifts are mostly from dawn to dark. I take care of both courses during the week. We have two carts on the weekend,” explains Richards. “The duty of 36 holes is fast-paced, but I love the hustle. Naturally, I keep in mind to perform etiquette and courtesy.”
Richards openly admits that she is extremely fortunate as her place of employment is uniquely special.
“The Alpine and Monument courses are challenging and extremely scenic,” says Richards. “I don’t take their beauty for granted. I’m blessed to have such a gorgeous office.”
To be effective as a cart girl at BOYNE Mountain, you have to be ready for any type of weather.
“I carry half my closet in my truck,” adds Richards. “I’m prepared for whatever Northern Michigan’s weather sends my way.”
When weather conditions sour, she continues to deliver her brand of customer service.
“When a quick rain comes in, I gather my golfers to a shelter and make a party of it,” admits Richards. “We sing along, tell jokes, and talk about there they are from, while I sell beverages.”
Of all the many golfers, who Richards has met over the years — and the list includes a number of well-known celebrities – there’s one group that stands out above all the rest.
“I have a fantastic memory of a 16-lady bachelorette party on The Monument course,” says Richards. “The details are not P.C., so I’m unable to share the details. They had a great time, as did I.”
When the mercury drops and daily temperatures get too cold for golf, she transitions to a new venue, indoors.
“In the winter, I work as a bartender at the Trophy Room Pub and Pizzeria in Boyne Mountain. I hope to work there till I can’t,” concludes Richards.
When Richards is not working, she likes to be at home, spending time with family, and going horseback riding with her husband Kevin, while their German shepherd Sue tags along on foot.
“I am blessed with two granddaughters and my mom is a big part of my life,” says Richards. “I love to be at home. I have many flower beds, a small garden, and always have house chores to occupy my time.”
After playing Alpine or Monument, where you’ll meet and mingle with cart girl extraordinaire Jerri Lee Richards, you’ll agree that there’s more to the BOYNE Mountain golf experience than meets the eye.
